July 17, 2024

NORTHBROOK, Ill. – Braxton Lacher and head coach Josh Anderson of Dakota State (S.D.) were nominees to the 2024 Allstate American Football Coaches Association Team award, the list was announced Wednesday.

Allstate is partnering with Wuerffel Foundation to bring together two of the most meaningful awards in college football.

The Allstate Wuerffel Trophy will honor a student-athlete who is inspired to serve others and make a positive impact on society.  Together with the Allstate AFCA Good Works Team, the awards will mark college football's premier honors for community service.

"Student-athletes deserve recognition for their contributions both in and out of sports," said Troy Hawkes, Allstate executive vice president and general manager.  "The Allstate Wuerffel Trophy doubles down on Allstate's commitment to celebration college football athletes for outstanding performance on the field, in the classroom, and in their community."

Established in 1992, the Allstate AFCA Good Works Team recognizes college football athletes for their unwavering commitment to community service and their 'good works' off the field.  This year's 178 nominees champion causes including mental health awareness, youth mentorship, hunger relief, domestic abuse prevention, and many more.  In addition to being actively involved with a charitable organization or service group, each player must also maintain strong academic standing to be considered for a spot on the Allstate AFCA Good Works Team.

The final roster of 23 award recipients announced later in September will bring together 11 players from the NCAA FBS, 11 players from the NCAA Football Championship Subdivision (FCS), Divisions II, III, and the NAIA, and one honorary head coach.

Lacher, a 6-foot and 230 lbs. senior snapper for the Trojans, was the first North Star Athletic Association Snapper of the Year recipient last fall.  He was an All-Conference First Team specialist.  He has received numerous academic awards including NAIA and NSAA Scholar-Athlete awards, and the College of Sports Communicators academic award.

Lacher served on the Leadership Council in football.  He also hosted the DSU Unite fundraiser event for the last two years.  He was the President of the Tribeta National Biological Society Dakota State Chapter, a member of the Captain's Council, Trojan Ambassador, and volunteered as the public announcer at DSU's home sports events.

He volunteered with the Special Olympics, organized a youth baseball camp for local kids, and participated in numerous volunteer activities. 

The Trojans, under the guidance of Anderson, had been involved with various Champions of Character activities, such as bowling and basketball with the Special Olympics athletes.  His squads have helped with any natural disaster clean-ups, and many other volunteer activities, projects within the community of Madison.